About a week ago, a friend named ChelseaDan (pseudonym) had an argument about who was the cutest Sanrio character. He’s going to post his claim eventually but I decide to pre-counter attack it. Mawaha!

I reject that Pochacco is the cutest Sanrio character! There’s a bunch of other Sanrio characters that would slap that dog in the face, mainly one in particular. Okay I lied, he’s not the cutest little thing in the world compared to Sanrio’s latest characters Sugarmnuet and Cherinacherine but you have to admit he’s really cool. Also he’s a penguin!

I’m talking about the one and only Badtz Maru; the almost lovable penguin. His name in Japanese literally means wrong correct. Why? No idea but he can also be identified by an XO. He’s most classically seen sticking his tongue out. Not graceful I know but if I was a penguin and I had seen what they did to Happy Feet, I would be angry too.

Apart from his not-so-charming side, he’s actually quite popular or should I say more so than a dog that shall not be named. Badtz Maru has been featured in many product lines and the only Sanrio character marketed to both male and females. He doesn’t have as many products as Hello Kitty (then again neither does Barbie) but he can be found worldwide. Also he was the official mascot for the 2006 FIBA World Championship of basketball held in Japan. How do you like them apples?

He’s hands down my favorite Sanrio character and I can argue on and on about how this penguin will kick your….well kick you, but the only point I want to get across is that he’s better than Pochacco. Otherwise, here’s my top 10 cutest Sanrio characters:

1. Badtz Maru – I’m a sucker for penguins
2. Hello Kitty – She has everything!
3. Keroppi Hasunoue – Somehow they made a frog adorable
4. My Melody – I had a pencil of her in Elementary and loved it
5. Cinnamoroll – This is what a cute dog should look like!
6. Chococat – The alternative to Hello Kitty
7. Purin – A weird yet cute version of a golden retriever
8. Kuromi – Rival to My Melody and also should be Badtz Maru girlfriend
9. Charmmy Kitty – Cuter/Better version of Kelly Kitty too bad it’s just her pet
10. Tuxedo Sam – Fine here’s a cute penguin